Benjamin Haugh, the owner and driving force behind “All Nation Restoration” and two other small businesses, is not your typical business owner. His journey has been anything but conventional.
Ben grew up in Waco, Texas, in a strict religious cult that dictated every aspect of life—leaving no room for individuality or personal choice. Formal education was not a priority, and as a result, Ben received little structured schooling. On top of that, he was diagnosed with illiteracy and severe dyslexia, making reading and writing nearly impossible for him. What most people take for granted—reading a contract, writing an email, even filling out forms—became one of Ben’s greatest challenges. But rather than allowing these struggles to define him, he found a way to turn them into strengths.
At just 14 years old, Ben was shunned—not only by the cult but by his own parents. Angry and resentful, he was placed in a boys’ home, feeling completely betrayed by the people who were supposed to love and protect him. But what initially felt like punishment turned out to be one of the best things that ever happened to him. For the first time in his life, he was allowed to be himself, to discover his natural talents, and to realize that he had value beyond what others dictated. The boys’ home became the place where he started to understand his strengths, find his confidence, and learn the life skills that would eventually shape his future.
By 16, Ben legally emancipated himself, stepping into adulthood with no safety net but a relentless drive to make something of himself. He began working for a restoration contractor who took him under his wing and taught him the industry. Despite his difficulties with reading and writing, Ben had an incredible ability to problem-solve, think on his feet, and connect with people. He learned by doing, absorbing everything through hands-on experience.
At just 19, without any formal business training, a high school education, or even the ability to read a business plan, Ben took the ultimate leap—he started his own company. He had no idea what he was doing, but he had drive, adaptability, and a determination to succeed. The learning curve was brutal. Contracts, paperwork, managing finances—things that most business owners take for granted—were monumental obstacles for Ben. But he refused to let his illiteracy or lack of education hold him back. Instead, he found ways to navigate the world differently, relying on his sharp business instincts, trustworthy employees, and sheer perseverance.
Fast forward 15 years, and All Nation Restoration has grown from a one-man operation to a major force in Central Texas. What began with just Ben and one close friend—who is now his General Manager and most trusted employee—has become a thriving, respected company built on hard work, honesty, and determination.
Ben’s story is not just about overcoming illiteracy or escaping a cult—it’s about defying expectations and proving that intelligence and success come in many forms. Today, he dedicates his time to helping others, offering mentorship not only to small business owners and young entrepreneurs but also to large-scale corporations that seek to better understand and work with individuals like him. Ben recognizes that he isn’t the only one out there with learning differences or an unconventional background, and he strives to educate companies on how to tap into the strengths of employees who think and operate differently. His ability to navigate the business world through instinct, adaptability, and creative problem-solving offers valuable insight to organizations looking to create a more inclusive and effective workforce.
Ben is a husband and father of 3 kids, and resides in Austin Texas.
Ben invites you to connect—whether you’re looking for business advice, mentorship, or guidance on how to better understand and support unconventional thinkers in your company. He’s always ready to listen, to share, and to prove that sometimes, those who start with nothing
build the most extraordinary lives.
